Georgian Penwork Card Box

Description

This Georgian penwork card box, dating to circa 1835, is of slim elongated sarcophagus form with a raised lid, slightly convex sides and four ebonised squashed bun feet. Constructed in sycamore and veneered in satinwood, the exterior is extensively decorated with penwork comprising scrolling grape vines, foliage and blossoming flowers. The lid is centred with a scene depicting a mother and children eating and drinking beside a dog.

Opening the card box reveals a blue paper lined interior fitted with seven compartments separated by curved dividers. Inscribed to the inner edge is the handwritten note, “This box was done by Caroline Castley in 1835”, which may identify the decorator, as boxes of this type were often purchased plain before being decorated. The card box retains its working lock and tasselled key.

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Measurements

11cm High x 27cm Wide x 21cm Deep (4.33 x 10.63 x 8.27 Inches)

What is Sycamore?

Sycamore wood also known as Harewood is a member of the Maple family, found in Europe. It is light yellow in colour and is often a very clean wood, with a straight, fine grain. The wood is often pippy. However, these pips are usually a very similar colour to the rest of the wood making them hardly visible.

For further information see our Woods Encyclopaedia on Sycamore wood.

What is Satinwood?

Satinwood is found in India and Sri Lanka. It has a rich golden colour and an almost reflective sheen. Satinwood is traditionally used for high quality furniture.

For further information see our Woods Encyclopaedia on Satinwood.

What is Penwork?

Penwork was used on boxes to illustrate picturesque scenes and, at times, to document a vacation or visit to a foreign country. The prints would often depict people, landscapes, birds, insects, plants, flowers, and animals, as well as stories from Greek mythology or depictions of spa towns. Each of these drawings was very accurately drawn and beautifully varnished with shellac. It is likely that some penwork was commissioned by professional artists. Many of these works were highly detailed, showcasing the skill and expertise of the artist. Penwork was primarily a pastime practised by women (some of whom were just as skilled as the professionals) which explains the presence of so many examples throughout history.

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